Introduction to Trauma Awareness and Coaching

Why does learning about trauma matter?

Trauma is an emerging and important subject within the context of not only coaching, but education, and within business regarding corporate social responsibility and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging policies. It’s a subject which has so many inter-related links with mental health, addiction, stress, behavioural/physical health, and performance, that it’s a subject for all of us to get educated on. 

The understanding of the impact of trauma has been greatly advanced with science. We now know so much more about neurobiology, physiology and how these two are connected. We understand our nervous and endocrine systems and their connection to our stress responses. This enables us to be sensitive to what someone with trauma's view of the world might look like.

Some things to consider on Trauma Awareness and Coaching:

• Understanding trauma as a coach, does not mean you work to treat someone’s trauma. It means you work with the knowledge that trauma exists and that shapes how you interact with clients.
• This subject is vast and complex, it is ok to feel unsure, but you can build on your knowledge over time.
• Trauma can impact how someone thinks and feels, it can impact physical and mental wellbeing.
• We can never assume nor judge that someone else’s experience has been/or has not been traumatic. We do not diagnose. Two people could have had the same experiences with very different outcomes.
• Coaching as a discipline has many principles which are inherently trauma-aware.
• Being Trauma-Aware is a commitment to try to your best ability not to repeat experiences that are traumatic to someone, and in whatever way possible restore a sense of power, safety and self-worth to that individual.

Having knowledge of trauma as a coach allows you to understand the importance of some of the core-competencies of coaching in creating create a supportive environment for clients with trauma to thrive and reach their goals. Key coaching skills like building trust and setting clear boundaries enable clients to fully engage in the process. 

Knowledge of how trauma affects the body, especially the nervous system, enhances your ability to help clients be present during sessions. This involves using body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions to co-regulate, as well as managing your own stress through coaching supervision and self-care. Additionally, this knowledge helps you determine whether coaching or therapy is more appropriate for a client. By understanding the signs and symptoms of trauma, you can make informed decisions which ensures that clients receive the most suitable support for their needs, promoting their well-being and personal growth.

In conclusion, being trauma aware as a coach is important for providing comprehensive and effective support to clients. Ultimately, a trauma-aware coaching practice is better equipped to support the diverse needs of clients and promote lasting, positive change.

About Author:   

Mandy Manners is a highly respected coach, Coaching Academy expert trainer and mentor.  She is a certified professional life and recovery coach, a ‘She Recovers®’ designated coach, author and speaker. She specialises in mindset and recovery coaching, focusing on the impact of trauma and mental wellbeing.